Buffalo Grove Natives Named To Chicago Jewish '36 Under 36' List

Press release from JUF:

July 25, 2021

Buffalo Grove natives Marissa Bennett, 32, and Aaron Tarragano, 27, have been named to the tenth annual “Double Chai in the Chi: 36 Under 36” list of young Jewish movers and shakers in Chicago who are making major contributions through their work, in their free time, and in the Jewish community and beyond. Many of this year’s honorees have made significant social impact during this crucial time — those working to build a more just society, ensuring the health and wellness of our community during the COVID-19 pandemic, and creating important connections in innovative ways.

(The letters of the Hebrew word “chai,” which means “life,” also represent the number 18.)

Check out the list and full bios online at www.oychicago.com/36under36.

The list is compiled annually by JUF’s Young Leadership Division and Oy!Chicago (oychicago.com), a website for Chicago 20- and 30-somethings.

The roster is replete with leaders, innovators, volunteers and more. Some have traditional careers like coaching and dentistry, and some have found success in emerging fields, such as digital marketing and 3D printing. They work everywhere from classrooms to courtrooms, clinics to congregations.

“I’m so inspired by the list of honorees, especially this past year as we faced COVID,” said YLD past President Joanna Gliksberg. “So many showed up, stepped up and gave back in new ways despite such challenging times. To everyone honored— thank you for your contributions to our community and beyond.”

“This year's incredible honorees have elevated what it means to create real impact,” said Stefanie Pervos Bregman, Oy!Chicago’s co-founding editor. “From breaking down stereotypes to fostering community, the honorees blend impressive professional success with a unique understanding of how to enrich the lives of those around them.”

One way to celebrate these honorees is to make a gift to JUF in recognition of this accomplishment. This year, thanks to The Hineini Initiative, all donations made to JUF in honor of a 36 Under 36 honoree will be matched, doubling the impact and benefit to those in need in the community. Learn more and donate at https://donatenow.juf.org/36Under36.

This press release was produced by JUF. The views expressed here are the author's own.